The Rockford Board of Education issued the following summary of Superintendent Dr. Shibler’s performance evaluation, held on Monday, April 13, 2009 Rockford Public Schools reached two significant milestones this year: Rockford Public Schools will graduate its 125th class and Dr. Shibler will complete his twentieth year as superintendent. Dr. Shibler continued his professional and exemplary leadership of the district and he is generally considered the “dean” of superintendents in Kent County and throughout the State.
We believe that among other things, his duties as an instructor of future educators has helped to sharpen his educational philosophy and knowledge.He is dedicated to his profession, our district, and the community; and he remains totally committed to the continuous improvement of the Rockford Public Schools. Some examples of this include his efforts as chair of the KISD grassroots network. Of course the Education Yes! grades for the district of all A’s for the fourth year in a row speaks volumes.
Dr. Shibler’s voice is sought out and highly regarded within educational circles, as well as by the media, the Legislature and other external sources. He is a steadfast advocate for Rockford Public Schools but also public education in general. His leadership is superior both in his own actions as well as in his support of the leadership of his administration and staff. This year, Dr. Shibler led the development of RAMS VII, the seventh three-year strategic plan during his twenty years.
In addition, with Meadow Ridge Elementary obtaining Blue Ribbon status, Dr. Shibler, has led the entire district to Blue Ribbon status. Dr. Shibler’s management skills and style are very structured and results oriented. His staff performs at a very high level. District goals are a high priority and the RAMS models have led to district success. Dr. Shibler utilizes his skills in all areas he operates, whether it be in the district, the community or even within the legislative arena. He is always looking to make Rockford Public Schools the best district in the state and this desire trickles down to all district staff. His focus on the district’s vision is inspiring. He is an excellent leader and manager.
Dr. Shibler’s leadership prowess serves him well in all his professional relationships. Dr. Shibler continues to encourage, inspire and lead teachers, staff and administrators to reach their potential. Relationships with the board, administrators and staff, comunity leaders and legislators are all carefully cultivated by his words and actions. He has developed a sense of sensitivity and respect which encourages others to follow his lead. He has formed unique
relationships with business, community, and legislative leaders through efforts above and beyond the immediate duties of his position. The personal qualities that Dr. Shibler possesses illustrate what makes him who he is and in turn what makes Rockford Public Schools the great school district that it is. He is confident, realistic, honest and highly trustworthy. His effort, passion and ability to execute the district’s plans are never questioned and never lacking. His honesty, integrity and trust serve the district in good times but also help the district navigate a challenging budget environment. Quite simply, Dr. Shibler is the consummate professional. He has a knack for accepting and learning from criticism without sacrificing the reputations of the district or himself. It truly is a pleasure to work with Mike. Our district’s reputation has not developed by accident. His respect and visibility within our community and with our community and with our state and federal legislators is truly an asset to our district. We applaud him for avoiding complacency. He continues to keep Rockford’s standards high and maintain the community as a place people choose to live because of the quality of our academic offerings and opportunities. Dr. Shibler is an outstanding superintendent and we are fortunate to have him lead our district.
Ordinarily, the Board would recommend and award an increase in his salary. However, the budget climate for the district, the region, and the state is a challenging one and, in anticipation of budget challenges for the district
in the coming years, the Board is electing to freeze Dr. Shibler’s salary for 2009-2010 at its current level.
The Board of Education unanimously supported the extension of Dr. Shibler’s contract for an additional year taking it through the 2014-2015 school year.
At its regular meeting held following Dr. Shibler’s performance evaluation, motion was made by David Keller, supported by Randall Sellorn, to extend Dr. Shibler’s contract through the 2014-2015 school year and, given current budget challenges, to freeze his salary for 2009-2010 at its current level. The motion car-
ried unanimously.
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